Should You Have A First Look Photo Shoot?

As you plan your special day, you will be faced with a million questions. One of the big decisions for the wedding day will be whether or not you choose to have a first look photo shoot. Before you walk down the aisle and say your I do's, you and your partner will have the chance to see each other and have some memorable photos taken. For some, this breaks tradition and is a definite no-go. For others, it's a beautiful addition to the day. So, should you have a first look photo shoot? We break down the pros and cons of both options!

You Got Me Feeling Emotions...

Pro: There is no denying that the first moment when you see your partner on your wedding day is an emotional one. Whether you are grinning from ear to ear or shedding a few tears, it will be an incredibly special moment. Choosing a first look photo shoot gives you the chance to experience this without all of the eyes of your guests and lets you cherish that moment privately. It also gives your photographer a chance to capture all of the emotions in a more intimate setting with no distractions.

Con: As you walk down the aisle and you lock eyes, you will feel an incredible rush of emotion. For many couples, this is one of the most powerful moments of the day and is a memory you will look back on for years to come. Keeping that moment traditional is something that you will be about to share with your partner, as well as your family and friends.

Click Click Snap...

Pro: Of course having a first look photo shoot means even more photos from the day! When it comes to your wedding, you can never have too many snaps and this will be another wonderful memory that you can add to your collection.

Con: The photo shoot will take extra time, which means more time away from the wonderful festivities that take place before the wedding with your bridal party. This also means that you will have another activity to add into your day which will take addition planning and may even add in a bit of extra stress.

Get Involved...

Pro: For some couples, a first look shoot is the perfect opportunity to get the bridal party involved. After all, your bride tribe are the ones you have chosen to be a special part of your day, so it's another wonderful opportunity to share with them. You can also get a bit creative and come up with some fun ideas for the shots.

Con: Whilst this means more time with your bridal party, it also means more time away from your guests. After all, they have all come to celebrate with you too. This also means coordinating your bridal party before the ceremony which will add on more time.

Photographer...

Pro: Naturally you want your wedding photos to be as perfect as possible. Having this opportunity allows for you to also get some quality time with your photographer. This will allow them to work out the best processes for the rest of the day and allows you to share your thoughts with them before the ceremony and reception.

Con: It's safe to say that photographers are not a cheap expense at a wedding. Adding in this extra shoot means additional time that you will need to book your photographer for. The budget really factors in here!

How Are You Feeling...

Pro: Whether you are getting married in front of 20 people or 200, your wedding day can have you feeling incredibly nervous. This first look allows you and partner to spend some time together and take away some of the initial stress of the day. It will also give you the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera.

Con: Having an extra activity before the ceremony can add in a little bit of extra stress for some couples. What if we run late? Will my make up get ruined? These are all questions to consider when making this decision.